Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Delphi

Whispers of Nature and History

Today was a beautiful blend of natural serenity and echoes of ancient times. After several days immersed in the historical heart of Delphi, Hans-Peter and I decided to venture a bit further afield, seeking out some of the region's natural wonders. It was a day of gentle exploration, a welcome change of pace that allowed us to appreciate a different facet of Greece's beauty.

Our day began, as usual, with breakfast at the Amalia Hotel Delphi. The buffet was a delightful spread, and we enjoyed a leisurely meal while planning our itinerary for the day. Fuelled up and ready for adventure, we set off towards our first destination: Krya Park.


Experience modern comfort and historical charm at Amalia Hotel Delphi, your ideal base for exploring the ancient wonders of Delphi and beyond.

Krya Park is located a short drive from Delphi, near Livadia. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a lush, green oasis. The park is known for its natural springs, and the sound of running water filled the air as we stepped out of the car. Towering plane trees provided ample shade, creating a cool and inviting atmosphere. It was a welcome respite from the sun, and we immediately felt a sense of calm wash over us.


Discover the tranquility of Krya Park in Livadia, a beautiful green space perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

We strolled along the cobbled paths, admiring the small waterfalls and the crystal-clear Erkyna River that meandered through the park. The park was a gift to Livadia’s residents, and it was easy to see why it’s such a beloved spot. The air was fresh and clean, scented with the fragrance of damp earth and greenery. I paused to take a photograph of a stone arched bridge, its reflection shimmering in the water below. It was a scene straight out of a postcard, a perfect moment captured in time.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

Hans-Peter, ever the architect, was fascinated by the way the park's design integrated seamlessly with the natural landscape. He pointed out the subtle details in the stonework and the way the paths followed the natural contours of the land. We spent a happy hour wandering through Krya Park, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and enjoying the simple pleasures of nature. We even stopped at a small café for a coffee, savoring the moment and watching as families and couples enjoyed the park around us. It reminded me of the gardens back in Inverness, though perhaps a touch more exotic with the Greek flora.

After our relaxing interlude at Krya Park, we embarked on a more ambitious adventure: a hike through the Vouraikos Gorge.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Vouraikos River in Diakopto, Greece, where nature meets adventure in an unforgettable setting.

The gorge is located in the northern Peloponnese, and the drive there was scenic, winding through picturesque villages and offering glimpses of the rugged landscape. As we got closer, the terrain became more dramatic, with steep cliffs rising on either side of the road.

The Vouraikos Gorge is an impressive 20-kilometer-long ravine carved out by the Vouraikos River over millions of years. What makes this gorge particularly unique is the railway line that runs through it, the famous Odontotos Rack Railway, built in 1896. This railway connects Diakopto on the coast with Kalavryta, high in the mountains, and is considered one of the most spectacular rail routes in the Balkans.

We decided to hike a portion of the gorge, following the railway tracks from Zachlorou to Diakopto. The hike is considered relatively easy, but it’s essential to wear sturdy shoes, as the path is uneven and rocky. As we set off, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement. The idea of walking along a functioning railway line, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, was incredibly appealing.

The scenery was breathtaking. The Vouraikos River gurgled alongside the tracks, its crystal-clear water cascading over rocks and forming small waterfalls. The cliffs rose dramatically on either side, their rocky faces adorned with ferns and moss. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sounds were the rushing water and the occasional whistle of the Odontotos train.

We walked through tunnels, their cool darkness a welcome contrast to the sunlit gorge. We crossed bridges that spanned the river, their heights offering stunning views of the landscape below. Hans-Peter, ever the cautious one, made sure we stayed close to the side of the tracks, keeping an ear out for the approaching train. It added an element of adventure to our hike, a reminder that we were sharing this space with a working railway.

At one point, we paused to watch the Odontotos train chugging its way up the gorge. It was a charming sight, the little train snaking its way through the dramatic landscape. I imagined what it must have been like to ride this train back in the late 19th century, when it was first built. It must have been an incredible feat of engineering, and it continues to be a testament to human ingenuity.

As we continued our hike, we passed other hikers, families with children, and couples enjoying the natural beauty of the gorge. There was a sense of camaraderie among us, a shared appreciation for this unique and special place. We exchanged smiles and greetings, and I felt a sense of connection with these fellow travelers.

The hike through the Vouraikos Gorge was invigorating and inspiring. It was a chance to immerse ourselves in nature, to challenge ourselves physically, and to appreciate the beauty of the Greek landscape. By the time we reached Diakopto, we were tired but exhilarated. We treated ourselves to a well-deserved ice cream before catching a local bus back to Delphi.

Back in Delphi, as the sun began to set, we decided to visit the Rocky cafe and bar for a relaxing evening drink.


Discover the charm of Rocky Cafe and Bar in Delphi, where local flavors and stunning views create the perfect retreat for travelers.

Perched on a hillside, the bar offered stunning views of the valley below. We sipped on local wine, reminiscing about our day of exploration and watching as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The cafe had a very laid back atmosphere and the staff were very friendly. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve back into the ancient world with visits to the European Cultural Centre of Delphi and the Sikyonian Treasury. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today's natural wonders, the tranquil beauty of Krya Park and the dramatic landscapes of the Vouraikos Gorge. These experiences have added another layer to our understanding of Delphi, a reminder that this region is not just about ancient history but also about the enduring power of nature.

As I reflect on our adventures today, I am reminded of something my grandmother used to say: The best journeys are those that lead you back to yourself. Today's exploration of Delphi's natural beauty has certainly brought me closer to that feeling, a sense of peace and connection with the world around me. And I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Hans-Peter, my constant companion and fellow explorer.

For those planning a trip to Delphi, I highly recommend setting aside a day to explore the natural wonders that surround this ancient site. Whether it's a leisurely stroll through Krya Park or a more challenging hike through the Vouraikos Gorge, these experiences will add a new dimension to your visit and leave you with lasting memories of Greece's beauty.